Big freeze

The big freeze keeps its grip on UK – AA advice and breakdown update

Low overnight temperatures have again caused problems for the nation’s motorists with breakdown workload higher than yesterday, reports the AA.

For the day so far (as at 12:00), the AA has attended around 5,900 call-outs, up from around 5,200 at the same time yesterday. Breakdowns are currently coming in at around 1,300 every hour and the UK’s biggest breakdown provider expects to get to around 14,500 for the day (more than 50% busier than normal).

Darron Burness, the AA’s Head of Special Operations, says: “With daytime temperatures barely above freezing today, drivers should take extra care, particularly on side roads and in rural areas. If you’re planning to go away over the next few days, keep an eye on the weather forecasts, as we could get either rain or snow.

“Either way, take plenty of warm clothing, food, water, de-icer, ice scraper and a fully-charged mobile in case you run into difficulty.

“Before heading off, give yourself enough time to completely clear the car windows of any frost. Remember to free the wiper blades before turning them on, as they can stick to a cold windscreen and you risk burning out the motor and blowing a fuse. Also, ice crystals are sharp and can cut the rubber blades.”

Breakdown update

As at 12:00, the AA has attended around 5,900 breakdowns across the UK so far today, currently around 1,300 call-outs every hour.

By the end of the day, the AA expects to attend around 14,500 call-outs nationally, compared to around 9,500 on a normal Wednesday – more than 50% busier than normal.

Extra AA patrols and extreme weather AA Land Rovers crews are working across the country to help motorists in trouble.